Apple Care with Bordeaux Quiz Quiz

Discover essential knowledge about using Bordeaux mixture for protecting apple plants from diseases in horticultural practices. Each question covers key concepts related to the safe and effective use of Bordeaux mixture in apple orchards.

1. Purpose of Bordeaux Mixture

   What is the main purpose of applying Bordeaux mixture to apple trees in horticulture?

   1. To prevent fungal diseases
   2. To enhance pollination
   3. To repel insects
   4. To boost fruit sweetness

   Explanation: Bordeaux mixture is primarily used to prevent and manage fungal diseases such as apple scab and powdery mildew. It does not increase fruit sweetness, which is determined by genetics and cultural practices. The mixture is not an insecticide, so it is not effective in repelling insects, and it does not play a role in enhancing pollination.

2. Correct Timing for Application

   When is the most appropriate time to apply Bordeaux mixture to apple trees for effective disease prevention?

   1. After heavy rainfall in summer
   2. Before bud break in early spring
   3. During fruit harvest
   4. At leaf fall in late autumn

   Explanation: Applying Bordeaux mixture before bud break in early spring helps prevent infections as the trees emerge from dormancy. Application during harvest can lead to residue on fruit, while after rainfall or at leaf fall, it is less effective for disease control and can cause unnecessary exposure.

3. Ingredients in Bordeaux Mixture

   Which combination makes up the traditional Bordeaux mixture used on apple trees?

   1. Iron sulfate and soap
   2. Zinc oxide and glycerin
   3. Sulfur and neem oil
   4. Copper sulfate and lime

   Explanation: Bordeaux mixture is made from copper sulfate and lime (calcium hydroxide), which together help control fungal pathogens. Zinc oxide with glycerin, sulfur with neem oil, and iron sulfate with soap are not used to make Bordeaux mixture.

4. Potential Risk with Bordeaux Mixture

   What is a possible risk of overusing Bordeaux mixture on apple plants?

   1. Delayed ripening
   2. Copper accumulation in soil
   3. Reduction in fruit color
   4. Increase in insect infestation

   Explanation: Repeated use of Bordeaux mixture can lead to copper build-up in the soil, potentially harming soil organisms and plant health. It does not directly reduce fruit color, does not promote insect infestations, and has no significant effect on ripening time.

5. Best Practice for Mixing Bordeaux

   What is an important safety practice when preparing Bordeaux mixture for apple orchards?

   1. Always wear protective gloves and eyewear
   2. Use sugar to dissolve the ingredients
   3. Mix ingredients with bare hands
   4. Prepare indoors without ventilation

   Explanation: Since Bordeaux mixture contains chemicals that can irritate skin and eyes, it is important to wear protective gloves and eyewear. Mixing with bare hands is unsafe, preparing indoors without ventilation is hazardous, and sugar is not part of the correct mixture preparation.